EP1427251A2 - Method for the production of otoplastics and corresponding otoplastic - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for preparing plastic mouldings for fitting to the ear comprises: (a) taking a moulding appropriate to the intended use; (b) forming a plastic article corresponding to this; (c) forming a set of data corresponding to the shape of the moulding by digitizing; and (d) finely adjusting the shape of the plastic article using a second fabrication process controlled by this data. Independent claims are included for: (a) the use of the above process to produce a hearing aid which fits into the ear or outside it, a hearing aid which fits over the head, or a component for protecting against noise or water; and (b) a plastic moulding for fitting to the ear whose skin is made up of layers of thermoplastic.

Description

The present invention relates to a method according to the The preamble of claim 1 and an otoplastic according to that of claim 7.

The present invention addresses problems that arise in the manufacture of in-the-ear hearing aids. The The solution found in this regard can generally be found Apply earmolds to their definition below be pointed out.

In the production of in-the-ear hearing aid shells today usually the form of the individual by the audiologist Ear canal taken by making an impression, usually made of silicone.

This form is then used by the hearing aid manufacturers shipped where, based on this form, the Hearing aid shell is cast from a plastic.

• Beim Fertigungsverfahren auf der Basis des obgenannten Abdruckes müssen Kunststoffmaterialien eingesetzt werden, welche zu relativ harten, formstabilen Schalen führen. Dies wiederum führt, beim Einsetzen des fertiggestellten Im-Ohr-Hörgerätes ins individuelle Ohr, praktisch immer dazu, dass die Schale aufgrund verbleibender Druckstellen überarbeitet werden muss.
• Wohl ermöglicht das obgenannte Vorgehen eine dem einen Abdruck entsprechende Aussenformung der resultierenden, relativ harten Schale, nicht aber das Ausbilden komplexer Innen- und/oder Aussenformen, wie dies beispielsweise für die montageoptimierte Aufnahme von Funktionsteilen des Hörgerätes wünschbar wäre. Unter Funktionsteilen verstehen wir dabei sämtliche Aggregate, welche für die Aufnahme, Verarbeitung und Wiedergabe der Audiosignale verantwortlich sind, also von Mikrophonen, Digitalprozessoren, Lautsprechern und den zugeordneten Hilfsaggregaten, wie für Fernsteuerungen, binaurale Signal übertragungen , Batterien etc. Dabei ist darauf hinzuweisen, dass eine optimale Packung dieser Funktionsteile unter Ausnützung des zur Verfügung stehenden Platzes nur individuell vorgenommen werden kann, denn die Geometrie des Gehörganges kann individuell stark schwanken.

This approach is problematic in several ways:

• In the manufacturing process based on the above-mentioned impression, plastic materials must be used, which lead to relatively hard, dimensionally stable shells. In turn, when the finished in-the-ear hearing aid is inserted into the individual ear, this practically always means that the shell has to be revised due to remaining pressure points.
• The above-mentioned procedure certainly allows the resulting, relatively hard shell to be shaped corresponding to the impression, but not the formation of complex inner and / or outer shapes, as would be desirable, for example, for the assembly-optimized recording of functional parts of the hearing aid. By functional parts we mean all units that are responsible for recording, processing and reproducing the audio signals, i.e. of microphones, digital processors, loudspeakers and the associated auxiliary units, such as for remote controls, binaural signal transmissions, batteries, etc. It should be noted that Optimal packing of these functional parts using the available space can only be carried out individually, because the geometry of the ear canal can vary widely.

On the one hand, the described procedure is the highest labor intensive, and the resulting hearing aid stays off its comfort and the use of space mostly considered suboptimal. The one mentioned materials used in conventional manufacturing processes also require a relatively high wall thickness of the in-the-ear hearing aid shell, what the functional for the mentioned Share available space further than this anyway the case is reduced.

The present invention aims to mention these Fix disadvantages. For this purpose, it excels characterized in that the at least one shape is three-dimensional is digitized into a data set and the otoplastic or their shell by an additive construction process is created, controlled with the data record. Although yourself this manufacturing process especially for in-the-ear hearing aids suitable, it can also with similar advantages Outer ear hearing aids, further for other earmolds are used as for the manufacture of headphones of all kinds, from water protection operations, from Noise protection inserts etc. In a preferred Embodiment of the inventive method is takes into account that the application area of Otoplastics - it is especially on in-ear earmolds pointed out - subject to great dynamism in everyday life is, for example, the ear canal due to chewing movements. Through a single shaping of the application area, quasi as a snapshot, this dynamic is capable of Otoplastic manufacturing not to be considered. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment of the proposed method proposed by individual application area in natural movement or in positions from natural movement, several each To take forms or film-like the dynamics of Application area to register and in function of the additive construction method created in this way Taxes.

Fig. 1

ein vereinfachtes Schema einer nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren arbeitenden Fertigungsanlage für die Optimierung industrieller Fertigung von Otoplastiken;

Fig. 2

in einer Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 1, eine weitere Anlagenkonzeption;

Fig. 3

in Darstellung analog zu denjenigen der Figuren 1 und 2, eine noch weitere Anlagenkonzeption;

Fig. 4

schematisch ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät mit auf bekannte Art und Weise aufgesetzter Cerumen-Schutzkappe;

Fig. 5

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 4, ein nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren mit Cerumen-Schutzkappe gefertigtes Im-Ohr-Hörgerät;

Fig. 6

ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät mit einer auf bekannte Art und Weise eingearbeiteten Belüftungsnut;

Fig. 7(a) bis (f)

anhand perspektivisch dargestellter Ausschnitte von Otoplastik-Schalenoberflächen, mit dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren realisierte Belüftungsnuten;

Fig. 8

anhand eines schematischen Ausschnittes einer Otoplastik-Oberfläche, eine nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren realisierte Belüftungsnut mit entlang ihrer Längsausdehnung variierendem Querschnitt bzw. variierender Querschnittsform;

Fig. 9

schematisch eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren gearbeiteter, verlängerter Belüftungsnut;

Fig. 10

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 9, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit mehreren erfindungsgemäss gefertigten Belüftungsnuten;

Fig. 11(a) bis (e)

Ausschnitte von Otoplastikschalen mit nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren eingearbeiteten Belüftungskanälen verschiedener Querschnittsformen und Dimensionen;

Fig. 12

in einer Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 8, ein nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren realisierter Belüftungskanal in einer Otoplastikschale mit entlang seiner Längsausdehnung variierender Querschnittsform bzw. variierender Querschnittsfläche;

Fig. 13

in Analogie zur Darstellung von Fig. 9, schematisch eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit nach dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren eingearbeitetem, verlängerten Belüftungskanal;

Fig. 14

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 10, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit mehreren Belüftungskanälen, gefertigt nach dem erfindungsgemässen verfahren;

Fig. 15

schematisch eine Länggsschnittdarstellung einer Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit gerippter Innenfläche;

Fig. 16

einen Ausschnitt der Otoplastik gemäss Fig. 15 im Querschnitt, wobei die Rippen unterschiedliche Querschnittsflächen aufweisen;

Fig. 17

perspektivisch den Ausschnitt einer Otoplastikschale mit Innenrippung nach Fig. 15 oder 16, wobei die Rippen entlang ihrer Längsausdehnung unterschiedliche Querschnittsformen und Dimensionen aufweisen;

Fig. 18

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 15, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit erfindungsgemäss gefertigter Aussenrippung;

Fig. 19

schematisch einen Ausschnitt aus einer gemäss Fig. 18 gerippten Otoplastikschale mit Rippen unterschiedlicher Querschnittsflächen;

Fig. 20

schematisch einen Querschnitt durch eine Otoplastik mit Aussenrippung, ggf. Innenrippung, und mindestens teilweise Füllmaterial-gefülltem Innenraum;

Fig. 21

schematisch einen Längsschnitt-Ausschnitt einer erfindungsgemäss gefertigten Otoplastikschale mit biege- und stauchflexibler Partie;

Fig. 22

schematisch im Längsschnitt, eine erfindungsgemäss gefertigte Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit Aufnahmeraum für ein Elektronikmodul;

Fig. 23

die Otoplastik nach Fig. 22 bei ihrem Aufstülpen über ein Elektronikmodul;

Fig. 24

perspektivisch und schematisch, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik, wie insbesondere ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät, mit zweiteiliger, separierbarer und assemblierbarer erfindungsgemäss gefertigter Otoplastikschale;

Fig. 25

ausschnittsweise und schematisch, die Integration von akustischen Leitern und Anpassgliedern zu einem akustisch/elektrischen oder elektrisch/akustischen Wandler, in einer erfindungsgemäss gefertigten Otoplastik;

Fig. 26

in Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 25, die Anordnung zweier oder mehrerer akustischer Leiter in der Schale einer erfindungsgemäss gefertigten Otoplastikschale, und

Fig. 27

anhand eines vereinfachten Signalfluss/Funktionsblockdiagrammes, ein neuartiges Vorgehen bzw. eine neuartige Anordnung zu dessen Ausführung, bei dem bzw. der die Dynamik des Applikationsbereiches einer Otoplastik für deren Formgebung berücksichtigt wird.

The manufacturing method according to the invention and otoplastics thus realized are subsequently also explained with reference to figures. These show for example:

Fig. 1

a simplified diagram of a manufacturing plant operating according to the inventive method for the optimization of industrial manufacturing of earmolds;

Fig. 2

in a representation analogous to that of FIG. 1, a further system concept;

Fig. 3

in representation analogous to those of Figures 1 and 2, yet another system design;

Fig. 4

schematically an in-the-ear hearing aid with a cerumen protective cap fitted in a known manner;

Fig. 5

in the illustration analogous to FIG. 4, an in-the-ear hearing device manufactured according to the method according to the invention with a cerumen protective cap;

Fig. 6

an in-the-ear hearing aid with a ventilation groove incorporated in a known manner;

7 (a) to (f)

with the aid of perspectively illustrated sections of otoplastic shell surfaces, ventilation grooves realized with the method according to the invention;

Fig. 8

on the basis of a schematic section of an otoplastic surface, an aeration groove realized according to the method according to the invention with a cross-section or cross-sectional shape varying along its longitudinal extent;

Fig. 9

schematically an in-ear otoplastic with an elongated ventilation groove worked according to the method according to the invention;

Fig. 10

in illustration analogous to FIG. 9, an in-the-ear otoplastic with several ventilation grooves made according to the invention;

11 (a) to (e)

Cutouts of otoplastic shells with ventilation channels of various cross-sectional shapes and dimensions incorporated according to the inventive method;

Fig. 12

in a representation analogous to that of FIG. 8, a ventilation duct realized according to the method according to the invention in an otoplastic shell with a cross-sectional shape or cross-sectional area that varies along its longitudinal extent;

Fig. 13

in analogy to the representation of FIG. 9, schematically an in-the-ear earmold with an elongated ventilation channel incorporated by the method according to the invention;

Fig. 14

in the illustration analogous to FIG. 10, an in-the-ear earmold with a plurality of ventilation channels, manufactured according to the method according to the invention;

Fig. 15

schematically shows a longitudinal section of an in-ear earmold with a ribbed inner surface;

Fig. 16

a cross section of the otoplastic according to FIG. 15, the ribs having different cross-sectional areas;

Fig. 17

perspective the section of an otoplastic shell with internal rib according to FIG. 15 or 16, the ribs having different cross-sectional shapes and dimensions along their longitudinal extent;

Fig. 18

in the illustration analogous to FIG. 15, an in-ear earmold with an outer rib according to the invention;

Fig. 19

schematically a section of an otoplastic shell with ribs according to FIG. 18 with ribs of different cross-sectional areas;

Fig. 20

schematically shows a cross section through an otoplastic with external ribbing, optionally internal ribbing, and at least partially filler-filled interior;

Fig. 21

schematically shows a longitudinal section of an otoplastic shell made according to the invention with a flexible and compressible portion;

Fig. 22

schematically in longitudinal section, an in-ear otoplastic manufactured according to the invention with a receiving space for an electronics module;

Fig. 23

22 when it is put on via an electronic module;

Fig. 24

Perspectively and schematically, an in-ear otoplastic, such as in particular an in-the-ear hearing aid, with a two-part, separable and assemblable otoplastic shell manufactured according to the invention;

Fig. 25

in detail and schematically, the integration of acoustic conductors and matching elements into an acoustic / electrical or electrical / acoustic transducer, in an otoplastic manufactured according to the invention;

Fig. 26

25, the arrangement of two or more acoustic conductors in the shell of an otoplastic shell produced according to the invention, and

Fig. 27

based on a simplified signal flow / functional block diagram, a new procedure or a new arrangement for its execution, in which the dynamics of the application area of an earmold is taken into account for its shaping.

Those described after the manufacturing process Embodiments of earmolds are preferably all manufactured with this manufacturing process described.

definition

We understand an otoplastic to be a device that immediately outside the pinna and / or on the Auricle and / or in the ear canal is applied. To include outer ear hearing aids, in-ear hearing aids, headphones, Noise and water protection missions etc.

1. Manufacturing process

• http://ltk.hut.fi/·koukka/RP/rptree.html   (1)
  oder auf
• Wohlers Report 2000, Rapid Prototyping & Tooling State of the industry   (2)

The manufacturing process, which is preferably used to manufacture the otoplastics described in detail below, is based on three-dimensionally digitizing the shape of an individual application area for an intended otoplastic, then creating the otoplastic or its shell using an additive assembly process. Additive construction processes are also known under the term "rapid prototyping". With regard to such additive processes already used in rapid prototype construction, reference is made, for example, to:

• http://ltk.hut.fi/·koukka/RP/rptree.html (1)
  or on
• Wohlers Report 2000, Rapid Prototyping & Tooling State of the industry (2)

• Lasersintern: Auf einem Pulverbett wird, beispielsweise mittels eines Rollers, Heissschmelzpulver in einer dünnen Schicht aufgetragen. Mittels eines Laserstrahls wird die Pulverschicht verfestigt, wobei der Laserstrahl u.a. entsprechend einer Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. Otoplastikschale mittels der 3D-Forminformation des individuellen Applikationsbereiches angesteuert wird. Es entsteht in dem im übrigen losen Pulver eine verfestigte Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. deren Schale. Diese wird aus der Pulververlegeebene abgesenkt und darüber eine neue Pulverschicht aufgebracht, diese wiederum einer Schnittschicht entsprechend laserverfestigt, etc.
• Laser- bzw. Stereolithographie: Eine erste Schnittschicht einer Otoplastik bzw. einer Otoplastikschale wird mittels UV-Laser an der Oberfläche flüssigen Fotopolymers verfestigt. Die verfestigte Schicht wird abgesenkt und wird wieder von Flüssigpolymer bedeckt. Mittels des erwähnten UV-Lasers wird, auf der bereits verfestigten Schicht, die zweite Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. deren Schale verfestigt. Wiederum erfolgt die Laserpositionssteuerung u.a. mittels der 3D-Daten bzw. Information des individuellen, vorgängig erfassten Applikationsbereiches.
• Thermojetverfahren: Die Konturbildung entsprechend einer Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. der Otoplastikschale wird ähnlich wie bei einem Tintenstrahldrucker durch Flüssigauftrag u.a. gemäss der digitalisierten 3D-Forminformation, insbesondere auch des individuellen Applikationsbereiches vorgenommen. Danach wird die abgelegte Schnitt-"Zeichnung" verfestigt. Wiederum wird gemäss dem Prinzip der additiven Aufbauverfahren Schicht um Schicht zum Aufbau der otoplastik bzw. deren Schale abgelegt.

From the group of these additive processes known today for rapid prototype construction, it follows that laser sintering, laser or stereolithography or the thermojet process are particularly suitable for building up earmolds or their shells, and in particular the special embodiments described below. Therefore, to summarize only briefly, the specifications of these preferred additive assembly processes are discussed:

• Laser sintering: Hot melt powder is applied to a powder bed, for example using a roller, in a thin layer. The powder layer is solidified by means of a laser beam, the laser beam being driven, inter alia, according to a cut layer of the otoplastic or otoplastic shell by means of the 3D shape information of the individual application area. In the powder, which is otherwise loose, a solidified cut layer of the otoplastic or its shell is formed. This is lowered from the powder laying level and a new powder layer is applied over it, which in turn is laser-hardened according to a cut layer, etc.
• Laser or stereolithography: A first cut layer of an otoplastic or an otoplastic shell is solidified on the surface of liquid photopolymer by means of a UV laser. The solidified layer is lowered and is again covered by liquid polymer. Using the UV laser mentioned, the second cut layer of the otoplastic or its shell is solidified on the already solidified layer. Again, the laser position control takes place, among other things, by means of the 3D data or information of the individual, previously recorded application area.
• Thermojet process: The contour formation corresponding to a cut layer of the otoplastic or the otoplastic shell is carried out similarly to an ink jet printer by liquid application, inter alia, according to the digitized 3D shape information, in particular also the individual application area. Then the stored section "drawing" is solidified. Again, layer by layer to build up the otoplastic or its shell is deposited according to the principle of the additive build-up method.

• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sls.html      (3)
• "Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) of Ceramics", Muskesh Agarwala et al., presented at the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, Austin, TX, August 1999,   (4)
• http://www.caip.rutgers.edu/RP_Library/process.html   (5)
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/lom.html bzw.
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/rp_intro.html   (6)
• Donald Klosterman et al., "Direct Fabrication of Polymer Composite Structures with Curved LOM", Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, University of Texas at Austin, August 1999,   (7)
• http://lff.me.utexas.edu/sls.html   (8)
• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sla.html   (9)
• http://www.cs.hut.fi/~ado/rp/rp.html   (10)

With regard to additive construction methods and the above-mentioned preferred publications, reference may be made to the following further publications:

• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sls.html (3)
• "Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) of Ceramics", Muskesh Agarwala et al., Presented at the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, Austin, TX, August 1999, (4)
• http://www.caip.rutgers.edu/RP_Library/process.html (5)
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/lom.html or
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/rp_intro.html (6)
• Donald Klosterman et al., "Direct Fabrication of Polymer Composite Structures with Curved LOM", Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, University of Texas at Austin, August 1999, (7)
• http://lff.me.utexas.edu/sls.html (8)
• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sla.html (9)
• http://www.cs.hut.fi/~ado/rp/rp.html (10)

Basically, this is the case with additive construction methods each a thin layer of material on one surface filed, be it like laser sintering or the Stereolithography over the entire surface, be it like with Thermojet process already in the contour of a cut the earmold under construction or its shell. The desired cut shape is then stabilized or solidified.

Once a layer has solidified, a new one is placed over it Layer deposited as described and this in turn solidified and finished with the one underneath connected layer. So layer after layer the otoplastic or its shell is created by additives Layer-by-layer application.

For industrial manufacturing is preferred not just the cut layer for an individual Otoplastic or its shell deposited or solidified, but several at the same time. at Laser sintering solidifies e.g. the one laser, usually mirror-controlled, the cut layers one behind the other several earmolds or their shells before all solidified cut layers are lowered together. Then, after dropping a new layer of powder over all already solidified and lowered cut layers, in turn - the formation of several more takes place Sectional layers. Despite this parallel manufacturing the respective earmolds or their shells, digital controlled, individually manufactured.

This is used to solidify the several cut layers either a single laser beam is used and / or it more than one beam is operated in parallel and driven.

An alternative to this procedure is each to solidify a cut layer while using a laser at the same time for the formation of another otoplastic or Otoplastikschale the powder layer is deposited. After that the same laser becomes the prepared powder layer according to the cut layer for the further plastic solidify while the layer solidified before it lowered and a new powder layer is deposited there. The laser then works intermittently between two or several earmolds under construction or Otoplastic shells, the through the powder deposit at the Formation of a laser insert dead time resulting from the shells for the solidification of a cut layer of another in the Structure otoplastic is exploited.

1 schematically shows how, in one embodiment variant, several otoplastics or their shells are manufactured industrially in a parallel process by means of laser sintering or laser or stereolithography. The laser with control unit 5 and beam is above the material bed 1 for powder or liquid medium. 3 mounted. In position 1, it solidifies layer S _{1 of} a first earmold or its shell, controlled with the first individual data set D ₁ . Then it is moved to a second position on a displacement device 7, where it creates the layer S ₂ according to a further individual contour with the individual data set D ₂ . Of course, several of the lasers can be moved as a unit and more than one individual otoplastic layer can be created at the same time. Only when the envisaged lasers 5 have created the respective individual layers in all envisaged positions is a new powder layer deposited with the powder feed generally shown at 9 in the case of laser sintering, while (not shown) the solidified layers S in laser or stereolithography be lowered in the fluidized bed.

2 are simultaneously on one or more Liquid or powder beds 1, with several at the same time individually controlled lasers 5 layers individual earmolds or their shells solidified. Again, the powder dispensing unit 9 follows Completion of this consolidation phase and after stopping the laser deposited a new layer of powder, while in The case of laser or stereo lithography solidified layers or already solidified structures be lowered in the fluidized bed.

According to FIG. 3, laser 5 solidifies layer S ₁ on a powder or liquid bed _{1 a} , in order to then switch to bed ₁ b (dashed line), during which the powder application device 9 b removes over a previously solidified layer S ₁ powder on bed _{1 a} or, in laser or stereolithography, the layer S _{1- is} lowered. Only when the laser 5 on the bed 1b becomes active, does the powder dispenser 9a deposit a new powder layer over the layer S ₁ that has just solidified on the bed _{1 a,} or does the layer S ₁ in the liquid bed _{1 a} lower.

When using the Thermojet process and for analog Productivity increases become cut layers at the same time stored by more than one earmold or its shells, practically in one drawing by one Application header or, in parallel, by several.

With the method shown, it is possible to achieve the highest complex shapes on earmolds or their shells realize both what their external shaping with individual adaptation to the application area as well as what, with a bowl whose Concerning internal shaping. Overhangs, jumps and jumps can be easily implemented.

Furthermore there are materials for additive build-up processes known, which to a rubber-elastic and yet dimensionally stable shell can be molded, which, if desirable, locally different to extremely thin-walled and can still be realized tear-resistant.

In a preferred embodiment today, the Digitization of the individual application area, in particular the application area for a hearing aid, in particular in-the-ear hearing aids specialized institution, in the latter case at Audiologist. The one recorded there Individual form, as digital 3D information, especially in connection with hearing aids Submit production center, be it by sending of a data carrier, be it through an internet connection etc. In the production center, especially using the above-mentioned methods, the otoplastic or its shell, in the case under consideration, the in-the-ear hearing aid shell, individually shaped. It is also preferred that there Complete assembly of the hearing aid with the functional Assemblies made.

Due to the fact that, as mentioned, the used Thermoplastic materials in general are relative elastic, conforming outer shape is also the shape with regard to pressure points in earmolds or their shells far less critical than this was previously the case, especially for in-ear earmolds is of crucial importance. So can For example, in-ear earmolds Hearing protection devices, headphones, water protection devices, but especially for in-the-ear hearing aids, similar rubber-elastic stoppers are used, and it their surface hugs the Application area, the ear canal. Without further ado incorporating one or more ventilation channels possible in the in-ear earmold in order to possibly relatively tight fit of the otoplastic in the Ear canal undisturbed ventilation to the eardrum sure. You can do this with the individual 3D data of the application area in the manufacture of the Interior of the plastic can be optimized and optimally used, also individually with regard to the possibly to be included individual aggregate constellation like one Hearing aid.

Especially with earmolds in the form of hearing aids can make a through the central production of their shells central storage and management of individual data, both with regard to the individual application area, as well as the individual functional parts and their Settings. Must, from which Whatever the reason, a bowl can be replaced, so it can easily by calling up the individual data records can be manufactured again without being cumbersome Readjustment - as until now - would be necessary.

Due to the fact that for the manufacture of The process described for earmolds, however, only for prototype construction, are known and in the literature are not necessary at this point Reproduction of all technical details regarding this Method.

In any case, surprisingly, result from takeover this technology from prototype construction for the industrial, commercially viable manufacture of Otoplastics very significant advantages, and from Reasons that, in themselves, are not decisive in prototype construction are, such as B. elasticity of usable thermoplastic materials, the possibility of the highest to build thin-walled individually etc.

In summary, it is used by using the mentioned additive assembly processes for the production of Otoplastics or their shells possible, different Integrate functional elements that are constructive already during the planning of the earmold on the computer be prepared and that with the construction of the otoplastic or their shell are generated. Typically such functional elements so far only after Completion of the otoplastic or its shell in it fitted or added to this, what material Interfaces or material inhomogeneity at the Connection points is recognizable.

For the mentioned earmolds, especially with electronic installations, such as for hearing aids especially for in-the-ear hearing aids, are such elements those with the proposed technique directly into the Otoplastic shell can be installed, for example: Holders and holders for components, cerumen protection systems, Ventilation channels for in-ear earmolds, Support elements, the latter in in-ear earmolds Hold ear canal, like so-called claws (English channel locks).

An example of an in-ear earmold is shown schematically in FIG. 4 11, for example an in-the-ear hearing aid, where the acoustic output 13 to the eardrum is protected by a cerumen protective cap 15. This Protective cap 15 has so far been manufactured as separate part on the shell 16 of the otoplastic 11 applied and for example by gluing or Welding fixed. As in Fig. 5 in the same Illustration shown is by using the mentioned additive build-up the cerumen protective cap 15a directly to the shell 16a of the otherwise identical in-ear earmold 11a integrated. At the in Fig. 4 with P schematically indicated connection points, where at conventional methods inevitably lead to material inhomogeneity interface is created according to Fig. 5 no such interfaces, the material of the Shell 16a goes homogeneously into that of the cerumen protective cap 15a over.

This is only an example, like well-known cerumen protection systems and other functional elements by using the mentioned Manufacturing process can be built integrally.

Below are some specific novel ones Otoplastics presented:

2. Inner ear earmolds with ventilation

• Bezüglich akustischem Verhalten: Die heute bekannten Belüftungsrinnen sind kaum an die jeweiligen akustischen Erfordernisse angepasst. So können sie kaum, bei aktiven Otoplastiken, wie z.B. bei Im-Ohr-Hörgeräten, dazu beitragen, die Rückkopplungsproblematik von elektromechanischem Ausgangswandler zu akustisch/elektrischem Eingangswandler wirksam lösen zu helfen. Auch bei passiven Im-Ohr-Otoplastiken, wie Gehörschutz-Einrichtungen, vermögen sie nicht, das erwünschte Schutzverhalten zu unterstützen und gleichzeitig die erwünschten Belüftungseigenschaften beizubehalten.
• Cerumenempfindlichkeit: Die heute eingesetzten Belüftungsrinnen in der Aussflächen von Im-Ohr-Otoplastiken sind äusserst Cerumenbildungs-empfindlich. Die Cerumenbildung vermag, je nach deren Intensität, rasch die vorgesehene Belüftungsrinnen bezüglich ihrer Belüftungseigenschaften zu beeinträchtigen, wenn nicht gar vollständig zu verstopfen.

It is known to provide a ventilation channel on the outside of in-ear earmolds, in particular in-oh hearing aids, as is shown schematically in FIG. 6. Such ventilation channels, as they are used today, are in no way optimized in various ways:

• Regarding acoustic behavior: The ventilation channels known today are hardly adapted to the respective acoustic requirements. In active earmolds, such as in-the-ear hearing aids, they can hardly help to effectively solve the feedback problem from the electromechanical output transducer to the acoustic / electrical input transducer. Even with passive in-ear earmolds, such as hearing protection devices, they are unable to support the desired protective behavior and at the same time maintain the desired ventilation properties.
• Cerumen sensitivity: The ventilation channels used today in the outer surface of in-ear earmolds are extremely sensitive to cerumen formation. Depending on their intensity, the formation of cerumen can quickly, if not completely, block the ventilation channels provided with regard to their ventilation properties.

It will be used below for in-ear earmolds especially for in-the-ear hearing aids or Hearing protection devices, but also for otoplastics, the only partially protrude into the ear canal, like headphones, Ventilation arrangements suggested the above Disadvantages of known arrangements, at least in part remedy.

• nutenähnlich gegen die Gehörgangwandung mindestens zum Teil offen sind,
• gegen die Wandung des Gehörganges hin vollständig geschlossen sind.

To this end, a distinction is made between ventilation systems that

• are at least partially open to the ear canal wall,
• are completely closed against the wall of the ear canal.

2a) Open against the wall of the ear canal ventilation systems

7 (a) to (f) are, based on perspective, schematic representations of sections of the Outer wall 18 of in-ear earmolds, novel ventilation groove profiles shown in sections. 7 (a) Profile of the ventilation groove 20a rectangular or square with specified, precisely maintained dimensioning ratios. 7 (b) is the profile of Ventilation groove 20b circular or elliptical sector-shaped, again with a precisely specified cross-sectional boundary curve 21b. By exact specification and implementation of the Cross-sectional shape of the ventilation grooves 20 provided already have a certain predictability and influence on the acoustic transmission ratios along this groove, with concerns on the inner wall of the ear canal. The acoustic behavior is also natural depending on the length with which the groove 20 is along the otoplastic outer wall 18 extends.

7 (c) to (f) are further ventilation groove profiles shown, which are additionally protected by cerumen. The Profile of the groove 20c according to FIG. 7 (c) is T-shaped.

With regard to the wide groove cross-sectional area at 27c the cantilevered portions 23c and the resulting one Narrowing 25c, against the wall of the ear canal, already a respectable wax protection effect. Even if cerumen in the constriction 25c penetrates and hardens there, results therefore no significant narrowing or even Blockage of the ventilation groove, which is now closed Ventilation duct. 7 (d) to 7 (f) is the Principle of Fig. 7 (c) explained, the Cross-sectional shape of the wide groove portion 27d to 27f with of different shapes, as shown in FIG. 7 (d) circular sector-shaped or corresponding to the sector of a Ellipse, according to FIG. 7 (e) triangular, according to FIG. 7 (f) circular or elliptical.

Through targeted design of the groove cross-sectional area, such as this only for example with reference to Figures 7 (a) to 7 (f) is shown, can be both in terms of acoustic Properties as well as regarding wax protection already to a large extent compared to conventional, more or less randomly profiled ventilation grooves Make an impact. The profiles are under Consideration of the wax protection effect mentioned and the acoustic effect previously modeled and exactly integrated into the manufactured earmolds. For this the above-mentioned are particularly suitable additive construction process. To continue the acoustic The effect of the ventilation groove can be optimized along the new types of ventilation grooves acoustic impedances can be realized what for example according to FIG. 8 in ventilation grooves 29 results which, progressing in their longitudinal direction, define different profiles as you choose in 8 compiled from profiles according to FIG. 7 are shown.

Similar to the design of passive electrical networks, can thereby the acoustic transmission behavior of the am The auditory canal is modeled and checked, then in the in-ear earmold or their Shell are integrated.

Cerumen-protected sections can be targeted relevant, exposed parts, as in Fig. 8 at A shown, are provided.

Furthermore, it may well be desired, especially with Look at the optimization of the acoustic conditions that provided ventilation grooves longer than this basically by the longitudinal extent of a considered In-ear earmold is given. As shown in Fig. 9, this is achieved in that such grooves 31 with Training, as for example with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 are shown in predetermined curves along the Surface of the otoplastic are performed, for example as shown in Fig. 9, practically as the otoplastic thread-like wrapping grooves. Further Optimization flexibility is achieved by not only one ventilation groove, but several on the surface of the earmold, as shown schematically in Fig. 10 is shown. The high flexibility of groove design leads to that depending on the application area in the ear canal purposefully differently dimensioned, regarding Cerumen protection and acoustic transmission conditions optimized ventilation grooves along the otoplastic surface can be realized.

2b) Ventilation systems with fully integrated channels

This training variant of the new ventilation systems is based entirely on at least sections Integrated earmold, against the ear canal wall closed ventilation channels. This system will then based on his training on an earmold shell explained. However, it should be emphasized that if no further aggregates on the considered earmold are integrated and it is designed as a full plastic, the following explanations are of course also true on any channel guide through the mentioned Cover fully plastic.

11 are different in analogy to FIG. 7 Cross-sectional shapes and area ratios of the proposed ventilation channels 33a to 33e. 11 (a) has in the otoplastic shell 35a built-in ventilation duct 33a rectangular or square Cross-sectional shape. In the embodiment according to FIG. 11 (b) he, 35b, has a sector of a circle or an ellipse Channel cross-sectional shape. In the embodiment according to FIG. 11 (c), the intended ventilation duct 33c has a circular shape or elliptical cross-sectional shape while at 11 (d) has a triangular design Has cross-sectional shape.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 11 (e), the Otoplastic shell has a complex internal shape, e.g. a integrated bracket section 37. For optimal Use of the ventilation duct 35e provided here designed with a cross-sectional shape that is also complex Forms the otoplastic shell uses. Accordingly, it extends its cross-sectional shape partially complicates with that of the Shell 35e attached bracket 37.

Looking back at the version according to section 2a) it must be stated that such complex, optimally the for Cross-sectional shapes using available space also on ventilation grooves open towards the auditory canal can be realized, as well, vice versa, channel guides, such as they are shown for open grooves in FIGS. 9 and 10, on closed ventilation ducts.

Finally, FIG. 12 shows an embodiment variant of a fully integrated ventilation duct 39 shown, the along its length, as shown for example in the otoplastic shell 41, different Cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions has, which in the sense of realizing different acoustic impedance elements the acoustic Transmission behavior can be optimized. In this Connection and to the following section 5) referring, it can also be pointed out that because of the possibility of complex acoustic impedance ratios to realize ventilation ducts, especially those in closed construction shown in this section, at least in sections at the same time as acoustic conductor sections more active on the output side electromechanical converter, as on the output side of Microphones, for example in in-the-ear hearing aids, can be exploited.

13 and 14 is analogous to FIGS. 9 and 10 shown as on the one hand on the respective otoplastic 43 those integrated in this section Ventilation ducts extended by appropriate web guidance or on the other hand like two or more of the channels mentioned, possibly with different and / or varying Channel cross sections, in analogy to Fig. 12, on the Otoplasty can be integrated.

By the shown in sections 2a) and 2b), Options that can be combined in any way also open up the expert a myriad of design variants of the new Ventilation systems and in particular a large extent Freedom, due to the different, for yourself dimensionable parameters, for the respective individual otoplastic optimal wax protection and optimal acoustic To create transfer relationships. At all Design variants are preferably the specific individual design of the system is calculated or modeled mathematically, the mentioned needs account supporting. Then the individual earmould is realized. Again, the above is particularly suitable for this explained manufacturing processes with additive construction principle, as known from prototype construction, which then with the optimized model result is controlled.

3. Shape stability-optimized earmolds

This section is about novel earmolds to imagine which optimally matches the dynamics of the Application areas are adapted. For example it is known to be conventional in-ear earmolds of relative great ear canal dynamics, e.g. when chewing, not bill are able to bear, due to their essentially over all the same dimensional stability. Can do the same for example the acoustic conductors between outer ear hearing aids and ear canal of a dynamic of the Application area not to follow freely. With in-ear earmolds the same problem occurs, partially weakened, even with hearing protection devices, Headphones, water protection inserts etc. In particular partly their intrinsic function, protective effect, for example, if the mentioned application area dynamics increasingly will be carried. As an example, this can be done on known Hearing protection devices made of resiliently deformable Plastics are pointed out, which is probably the one mentioned Largely take into account the dynamics of the application area, but at the expense of their acoustic Transmission behavior.

15 schematically shows a longitudinal section reproduced an in-ear otoplastic, in Fig. 16 one schematic cross-sectional representation of a. section this earmold. The earmold - e.g. to record electronic components - has a shell 45 which stocking-like, thin-walled made of elastic material. The dimensional stability of the - in the illustrated Embodiment smooth outside - shell skin becomes - where desired - by integrally placed on the inside of the bowl Ribs 47 which, with respect to the skin of the shell, are made of the same material.

Depending on the required dynamic of the in-ear earmold on the one hand, for example that of the ear canal To take into account and the requirements regarding the Support and protection of internals, such as in an in-the-ear hearing aid, the course of the wall thickness of Shell skin 45, the density and shape of the ribs 47 previously calculated and then the otoplastic after the calculated data. Again, this is suitable using the manufacturing method explained above additive construction process extremely good. Of course, the training just explained In-ear earmoulds can be combined with one Ventilation system, as is shown in FIGS. 7 to 14 was explained. In particular, the provided Ribs to influence the shape stability or Bendability also in certain areas of the earmold different cross-sectional profile are formed, possibly also progressively in their longitudinal extent of one Cross section to the other.

17 is in the form of a perspective illustration purely for example the formation of the outer skin 45 Ribs 47 with varying cross-sectional areas along their longitudinal extent is shown schematically.

Instead of or in addition to the targeted wall reinforcement and targeted interpretation of the bending or torsion behavior, briefly the shape behavior of the in-ear earmold, how mentioned, in addition to the inner rib pattern, as shown in 17 and 18, also a Outer rib sampling can be provided. According to Fig. 18 and 19 will be used for this, possibly with areas different density, orientation and profile shape a pattern of ribs 51 on the outer surface of the otoplastic 49 worked up.

19, this can be done for those considered here Otoplastics with cavity are used, but also for Otoplastics with no cavity, for example with no electronic components, e.g. For Hearing protection devices or water protection devices. A such otoplastic is in a cross-sectional view shown schematically in Fig. 20. Here is the interior 53 for example from extremely compressible Absorbent material manufactured and from a shaping Skin shell 55 surrounded with the rib pattern 57 "skin" 55 and the rib pattern 57 are common manufactured integrally. Again, this is suitable Manufacturing processes explained at the beginning with the help additive construction process. How far in the near future this additive build-up processes, alternating the processed ones Materials can be realized on a workpiece, remain undecided. If this becomes possible, the train is free, for example using the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 20 also the filler 53 at the same time as the shell skin 55 and the ribs 57 sequentially in respective structural layers build.

Looking back in particular at FIGS. 18 and 19 can be seen that with the help of the outer rib pattern at the same time ventilation channels or free spaces are formed can be, as this is purely schematic and for example is represented by the path P.

Returning to FIG. 20 again, it is entirely possible, if necessary and as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 20 at 57 _i , even if the in-the-ear earmold is filled with material, that is to say not for accommodating further structural units, such as electronic structural units is determined to provide an inner rib pattern 57 _i on the shell skin 55. As further shown in dashed lines in FIG. 20 at 59, otoplastics can also be created, which probably leave a cavity for units to be accommodated, such as electronic components, but in which the space between such a cavity 59 is specific to the necessary volumes and shapes of the additional designed units to be installed and the shell skin 55 is filled, for example, by a resilient or sound-absorbing material or components to be installed are poured out with such a material as far as the shell skin 55.

The shell skin 55 or 45, according to Figures 15, 16 and 17, can be made of electrically conductive material be made, with which an electrical Shielding effect for internal electronic components is created. This may also apply to the filling 53 20.

On the basis of FIGS. 15 to 20, an otoplastic was used on Example of an in-ear earmold shown, its shell shape stabilized with internal and / or external ribs is what an extraordinarily light and specifically formable Construction results. Of course, this type of construction if necessary also with outer ear earmolds be used.

21 shows a further embodiment variant of an in-ear earmold shown which are targeted in one area is bendable or compressible. The shell 61 of an otoplastic, as in particular the shell of an in-the-ear hearing device for this purpose in one or more specified areas Shaft or corrugated hose formation 63 on what they according to the respective needs, bending or is compressible. Even if FIG. 21 shows this procedure using the Represents shell of an in-ear earmold, this can be Procedure and if necessary also for one Realize outer ear otoplastic. Again, this becomes preferably the above Manufacturing process used.

In this embodiment too, as can be seen from this of Fig. 20, the inner volume of the Otoplasty with the corresponding requirements Filling material can be filled or integrated into it Internals are embedded in such filler material, which results in a higher stability of the device and improved acoustic conditions.

4. Modular housings / internals

The problem with in-the-ear hearing aids in particular that the application area, i.e. the ear canal, his Shape changes. Obviously, this is the case with adolescent people. But changes also in adults the ear canal becomes partially strong, usually narrowing Senses (e.g. so-called diver's ear).

This results conventionally in in-the-ear hearing aids the problem that even when the hearing aid internals on to be maintained over long periods of life could, for example, only the transmission behavior of the hearing aid according to the respective listening conditions would have to be readjusted, but always new ones Hearing aids need to be designed just because of the Fact that the previous one is no longer satisfactory fit into the ear canal.

Already the measures explained in section 3 give the opportunity to improve this due to the The fact that this automatically adjusts the shape of the Otoplasty on changing application areas is made possible. This section is intended to address this further measures, in particular using in-ear earmolds, are explained. But it is on it to point out that even with outer ear earmolds, such as Outer ear hearing aids so that the opportunity is opened to change the "housing", and not only if this is necessary in terms of comfort, but also after Desire, for example, about the aesthetic appearance to replace such outer ear hearing aids.

In Fig. 22 an in-ear earmold 65 is schematic and in Longitudinal section shown what the shape of the interior 67 substantially the shape of that shown in Fig. 23 schematically illustrated electronics module 69 to be accommodated equivalent. The earmold 65 is made of rubber-elastic Material and can, as shown in Fig. 23, over the Electronics module 69 are slipped. The formation of the Interior 67 is such that the or possibly the through several modules to be included directly the earmold 65 can be positioned and held. Because of this, it is easy to get one and the same electronics modules 69 with different To provide earmolds 65, for example in one adolescent child of the changing Ear canal training. The earmold will for the in-the-ear hearing aid practically easy interchangeable disposable accessory. Not just to yourself changing conditions in the application area, namely the Ear canal to take account of it, but also simply out Pollution reasons, the earmold 65 can easily change. This concept can even do that be used, if necessary - for example at Ear canal infections - medical applications, for example by applying medication to the Otoplastic outer surface or at least to in Regularly sterilized earmolds use.

The concept illustrated with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23 leaves of course with the in sections 2) and 3) combine outlined concepts and it will preferably the otoplastic 65 according to the method described in section 1) manufacturing process explained, which the Training of the most complex interior shapes for play and enables vibration-free inclusion of module 69.

As can be seen from FIGS. 22 and 23, for example as part of the module holder, the phase plate 1 otherwise provided in conventional in-the-ear hearing aids is built integrally with the otoplastic. The same applies to further holders and receptacles for electronic components of the hearing aid. If the layer-by-layer build-up method described in section 1) is implemented, as shown by dash-dotted lines in FIG. 22 and in the direction indicated by the arrow AB, then it should be possible without further ado, the earmold in the mentioned build-up direction AB depending on the requirements to be made in the respective areas from different materials. This also applies to the earmoulds described in sections 2) and 3) and to those explained in the following sections 5), 6) and 7). Using the example in FIG. 22, it is therefore entirely possible to manufacture the region 65 _a from rubber-elastic material, whereas the exit region 65 _{b is} made from a more dimensionally stable material.

24 is another embodiment of a Otoplasty, again as an example using an in-the-ear hearing aid, shown, which is a simple, quick Replacing the internal fittings allows. in principle it is proposed to use an in-ear earmold Built-in multi-part and the earmold shell to be designed to be assembled, as shown in FIG. 24. through fast-acting closures, such as snap locks, Latches or even bayonet-like Closures are made possible on the in-ear earmold Separate housing parts 73a and 73b quickly, the Remove internals such as electronic modules and them reinstall in a new shell, possibly with a different one External shaping or basically in a new bowl, too if, for example, for reasons of reprimand, Sterility reasons etc. is required. Will be there intended to throw away the already used bowl it is easily possible to connect the shell parts to be designed so that the shell only opens destructively can be, for example, by not from the outside accessible locking devices such as latches are provided and cut open the shell for its removal becomes.

This embodiment can of course with the described so far and still to be described Design variants can be combined.

5. Integration of acoustic conductors in earmolds or their shells

It is with outer ear as well as in-ear hearing aids usual, provided acoustic / electrical transducers or electro-acoustic output converter input or on the output side via assembled as independent parts acoustic conductors, namely tube-like structures with to couple the surroundings of the hearing aid, or else, especially with acoustic / electrical input Transducers, these with their receiving area directly in the To place areas of the surfaces of the hearing aid, if necessary only by slight voids and Protective measures separated from the environment.

There is one in the design of such hearing aids relatively large bond, where the actual ones in the hearing aid Converter and where on the hearing aid the actual Coupling openings to the environment must be provided. It would be highly desirable regarding the arrangement of Coupling openings to the environment and arrangement of the mentioned Largest possible converter within the hearing aid To have freedom of concept.

This is basically achieved by the fact that mentioned acoustic conductor - input side of acoustic / electrical transducers or on the output side of electrical / acoustic transducers - in the earmold or in the wall of otoplastic shells can be integrated.

This is shown purely schematically in FIG. 25. On Converter module 75 has an acoustic input and output 77 on. The shell 79 of the otoplastic of an in-the-ear or an outer ear hearing aid or headphones, in you integrated, an acoustic conductor 81. He is lying at least in sections and as shown in FIG. 25 within the wall of the otoplastic shell 79 acoustic stub lines or line sections 83 is preferably the respective acoustic impedance of the acoustic conductor 81 adapted. This concept, with a view on outer ear hearing aids, allows to move along the Hearing aid offset and where desired acoustic Provide input openings 85, these in the Otoplastics or their shell 87 integrated acoustic Head 89 to the intended acoustic / electrical To couple converter 91, essentially regardless of where these transducers 91 are installed in the hearing aid. So is in Fig. 26 only shows two converters as an example centralize a module and connect its inputs with the desired receiving openings 85 through the aforementioned guide to connect the acoustic conductor 89. Considering the Figures 25 and 26 and the explanations in section 2) with regard to the new ventilation systems, that it is quite possible to use ventilation ducts as well use acoustic conductor channels, especially if as schematized in Fig. 25, by means of acoustic Matching elements 83 the acoustic impedance conditions be designed specifically.

6. Labeling of earmolds

In the manufacture of earmolds, especially in-ear earmolds, each one is individual for their adapted to each carrier. Therefore it would be extremely desirable, every manufactured earmold, as mentioned especially any in-the-ear earmould, especially so to mark each in-the-ear hearing aid. It will therefore proposed into or into the otoplastic Shell, by indentations and / or by bulges one to provide individual labeling, which in addition to the individual customer - e.g. Manufacturer - Product serial number, left-right application etc. included. can. Such labeling is much more preferred Way of manufacturing the earmold with the removal process described under 1). So that will ensures that any confusion from manufacturing the earmold is excluded. Particularly important this is the case with the following, possibly automated Assembly with other modules, such as the Assembly of in-the-ear hearing aids.

This can of course be combined with one or more of the sections 2) to 5) described aspects can be realized.

7. Optimization of otoplastics with regard to the dynamics of the application area

For the shaping of earmolds for in-ear application, for example for in-the-ear hearing aids, it is common today, from the ear canal, for example in silicone, to take an impression. If you take into account the relative great movement dynamics of the ear canal, for example when chewing, it can be seen that the support the in-ear otoplastic mold to practically one Snapshot corresponding impression hardly to one Result leads to fully satisfy that in use can. As now in Fig. 27 using a simplified Function block / signal flow diagram is shown of the dynamic application area, represented by the Block 93, on several of the dynamics taking place in practice corresponding positions taken form or, like a film, the dynamics of the application area itself registered. The resulting records are in a Storage unit 95 filed. Even with conventional This can be done by taking impressions be divided by the application area into two or more Positions that correspond to the practical dynamics Footprints are taken.

These prints are then scanned and the respective digital data records into the storage unit 95 stored. As a further possibility, for example Dynamics of the application area through X-rays be recorded.

There are therefore several depending on the accuracy to be achieved "Images" or practically a "film" of the movement pattern registered by the application area of interest. The data registered in the storage unit 95 then fed to a computing unit 97. The computing unit 97 controls the output side Manufacturing process 99 for otoplastic. For example, and as usual until today, in-ear earmolds made with relatively hard shell, the computing unit calculates 97 from the dynamic data stored in the storage unit 95 and possibly, as shown schematically at K, further Manufacturing parameters, the best fit for the Otoplastic, thus optimal comfort in everyday life is achieved while maintaining its functionality. Will that too manufacturing otoplastic according to the one outlined in section 3) Principle implemented, the computing unit 97 determines which otoplastic areas are to be designed and how in terms of their flexibility, flexibility, compressibility etc. As mentioned, the processor controls the output side 97 the manufacturing process 99, preferably the Manufacturing process as preferred in section 1) Process has been outlined.

Claims (20)

Process for the production of earmolds, in which at least one shape is taken from the individual application area, an otoplastic is manufactured in accordance with the at least one shape, the at least one shape is digitized three-dimensionally to form a data set and the otoplastic is created by an additive construction process, controlled with the data set, characterized in that the earmold is made as a shell from elastic material. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that multiple forms are taken from the individual application area in natural movement or in positions from natural movement and the data set is obtained from offsetting the several digitized forms. Method according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the shaping takes place by creating at least one impression from the application area, the impression or the impressions are scanned and the scanning signals are digitized. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that shaping and optionally digitization is carried out at distributed front centers, the data records are transmitted to a production center, where the otoplastic is created. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that laser sintering, stereolithography or a thermojet process is used as the additive build-up process. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that several different otoplastics are created quasi in parallel. Otoplastic, characterized in that at least its covering consists of elastic thermoplastic material solidified in layers. Otoplastic according to claim 7, characterized in that it is an in-the-ear hearing aid or an outer-ear hearing aid or a headphone part or a protective insert against noise or water. Otoplastic according to one of claims 7 or 8, characterized in that it has a pattern of longitudinally extended formations on at least one area of its outer surface. Otoplasty according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that the shell has at least on a region of its inner surface a pattern of elongated formations. Otoplasty according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the formations extend in the region in closed paths or in a thread-like manner around the otoplastic, preferably forming a structure similar to a corrugated or bellows-like structure. Otoplastic according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the formations form a grid pattern. Otoplasty according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the formations have different profiles. Otoplastic according to one of Claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the formations have a profile which varies in their longitudinal extent. Otoplasty designed as an in-ear otoplastic according to one of claims 7 to 14, with an area facing the eardrum and one facing the ear environment, characterized in that formations on the outer surface of the earmold define at least one channel running between the areas as a ventilation channel. Otoplasty according to one of claims 7 to 15, characterized in that it has a filling material which essentially fills it and which is adapted to the function of the otoplastic within the shell. Otoplastic according to claim 16, characterized in that at least one receptacle for a module to be installed in the otoplastic is provided in the filling material. Otoplastic according to claim 17 with built-in Electronic module. Otoplastic according to claim 18, characterized in that it is a hearing aid, preferably an in-the-ear hearing aid. Use of the method according to one of claims 1 up to 6 for in-the-ear hearing aids, outer ear hearing aids, headphones, Noise or water protection ear inserts.

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